Public discontent is reportedly growing across Tripura over alleged increase in electricity bills following the installation of smart meters, with protests and demonstrations being held in different areas on a regular basis.
There are allegations that electricity bills have risen significantly after the replacement of conventional meters with smart meters. The issue has triggered concerns among households, with residents demanding clarification from the authorities over the billing mechanism and the reasons behind the alleged increase.
Protests have reportedly been witnessed in various parts of the state, with consumers seeking a review of the bills and greater transparency in the smart metering system.
Meanwhile, Tripura Power Minister Ratanlal Nath on Sunday assured that the state government would take some decisions to solve the problems related to electricity bills.
He said this after a meeting at the office of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), Agartala.
The Minister said that during the meeting MD of TSECL Biswajit Basu, AGMs, DGMs, senior managers, revenue managers, Director Finance and other officials were present and Secretary of Power Abhsihek Singh joined the meeting virtually.
“I have instructed them to look into whether there are any problems or not, and if there is any problem, to solve it by consulting with the consumers and maintaining a cordial relationship. During floods and Durga Puja, officials worked tirelessly. I have also asked them that whenever they receive any complaint, they should take it up immediately and reach the spot as soon as possible to solve the problem, whatever the problem might be. I have spoken with all the officials and officials from various levels. Yesterday, we also held a meeting on a series of matters, including PWD, Agartala Smart City and TSECL. Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha has also heard about the entire details of TSECL. I was there, officials from TSECL were there, Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy was there, and the Chief Secretary, Finance Secretary and Power Secretary were also there,” he said.
He informed that recently the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission increased the fixed charge, Fuel and Power Purchase Cost Adjustment (FPPCA), and energy charge, which was not increased by the state government.
“They are an autonomous body, and every year, whenever they try to hike something, they give advertisements and then seek suggestions before taking decisions. TSECL is not responsible for increasing or decreasing the electricity bill. However, we have discussed all the matters and problems in detail, and the government would take a decision. A primary meeting was held, and tomorrow the official meeting will be held. The government is working to solve the problems, and we can’t be silent spectators. The government will do something to solve the problems.
“Due to server problems, around 1 lakh 50 thousand prepaid meter consumers have faced issues with recharge. So now we have decided that consumers can pay their recharge amount in six months like installemnt wise, or if they want, they can pay the entire amount directly,” said the Minister.